KINGSTON: Just under 200 Jamaicans were officially recognized on National Heroes Day on Monday by the government for their contribution to nation building.

One hundred and eighty Jamaicans were honoured at the National Honours and Awards ceremony, held on the lawns of King’s House – the official residence of the Governor General.

One hundred and fifty-two civilians received civil honours, including the Order of Merit, Order of Jamaica, Order of Distinction (commander and officer class) and the Badge of Honour for Long and Faithful Service.

These civil honours may be conferred on a citizen ofJamaicaor another country, who has achieved eminent local or international distinction in areas including Science, the Arts and Literature, among others.

The highest civilian honour, the Order of Merit, was conferred posthumously on Dr. Olive Lewin for her service in the fields of Folk Music Research and Performance and Music Education.

Lewin, who founded the Jamaican Folk Singers, is a member of the classes of the Order ofJamaicaand the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander.

During the ceremony, 27 members of the uniformed service, including the Jamaica Defence Force, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Department of Correctional Services and the Jamaica Fire Brigade, received medals of honour for gallantry and meritorious service.

The badge of honour for gallantry is conferred upon persons who have performed acts of gallantry or heroism or who have shown great courage in circumstances of extreme danger.

Civil honours are awarded on the advice of the Prime Minister to the Governor-General based on nominations received from members of the public or Members of Parliament, mayors and custodes.

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